Delicious Christmas Cheese Ball

Name: Delicious Christmas Cheese Ball
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this festive and flavorful Delicious Christmas Cheese Ball recipe. Perfectly creamy and blended with a mix of herbs, spices, and seasonal ingredients, this cheese ball is not only easy to make but also a stunning centerpiece for your charcuterie board. Pair it with crackers, fruits, and nuts for an irresistible appetizer that will delight your guests!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-09T08:49:10.754Z

This cheese ball is a holiday favorite that brings joy to any gathering. It's simple to prepare and offers a delightful combination of flavors that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

The Perfect Holiday Appetizer

This Delicious Christmas Cheese Ball is the quintessential appetizer for holiday gatherings. Its creamy texture combined with the zest of herbs and spices makes it a crowd favorite. As guests arrive, they’ll be drawn to this visually appealing cheese ball, making it a focal point for your charcuterie board. Serving it with a variety of crackers, fruits, and nuts allows guests to customize their bites, ensuring everyone finds a combination they love.

Not only does this recipe taste incredible, but it’s also visually stunning. The vibrant colors of the red bell pepper and green onions stand out against the creamy cheese, creating an enticing look that enhances your holiday spread. This cheese ball is not just food; it’s an experience, elevating the overall aesthetic of your table.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best features of this cheese ball recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or nuts based on your preferences. For example, substituting gouda for cheddar can bring a smoky depth to the flavor profile. Incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives can add an exciting Mediterranean twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the cheese ball to match your holiday theme.

If you’re looking to make this dish more festive, consider rolling the cheese ball in crushed cranberries or chopped herbs. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful touch of color that aligns with the holiday spirit. This adaptability makes it a fantastic dish for any occasion, not just Christmas.

Pairing Suggestions

When serving your Delicious Christmas Cheese Ball, pairing suggestions can elevate the experience even further. Consider offering a selection of crackers, including whole grain, flavored, and gluten-free options to cater to all guests. The texture variation enhances the taste and makes the eating experience more enjoyable.

Fresh fruits, such as apple slices, grapes, or figs, provide a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the cheese ball. Additionally, serving a variety of nuts can contribute crunch and richness, perfectly complementing the creamy cheese. For a festive drink pairing, offer sparkling beverages or mulled wine to warm up your guests’ spirits during the holiday season.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Cheese Ball Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your cheese ball:

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, red bell pepper, and nuts. Add garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Form the Cheese Ball

Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into a ball using your hands.

Chill

Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Serve

Unwrap the cheese ball and serve it on a platter with assorted crackers, fruits, and nuts.

Enjoy your delicious cheese ball!

Tips for Success

To ensure your cheese ball has the perfect texture, allow your cream cheese to soften completely at room temperature before mixing. This step is crucial for easy blending and achieving the desired creaminess. If you're short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it.

When shaking the cheese ball into shape, dampening your hands slightly can prevent sticking and make the process easier. If the mixture is too sticky, chilling it for a brief period can also help. Don’t forget to taste the mixture before shaping; adjusting the salt and spices can make a significant difference in flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This cheese ball can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal option for busy holiday schedules. Prepare it a day in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.

If you have leftovers, store the cheese ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 5 days. You can enjoy it again as a spread on sandwiches or as a topping for baked potatoes. Its versatility ensures that nothing goes to waste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes! This cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with the cheese ball?

Crackers, sliced fruits, and mixed nuts are great accompaniments.